How many grades of Article 15s are there?

The correct answer indicates that there are three grades of Article 15s, which are informal, summarily, and general. An Article 15, which refers to non-judicial punishment under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), allows commanders to impose disciplinary measures for minor offenses without resorting to court-martial proceedings.

The three grades differ primarily in their severity and the punishment that can be imposed. The informal Article 15 is often used for minor offenses, involves less formality, and is typically conducted at the unit level. The summary Article 15 is more formal and can impose a broader range of authorized punishments, while the general Article 15 allows for the most severe penalties and is used for more serious infractions. Understanding these distinctions helps ensure that military personnel are fairly and appropriately held accountable for their actions.